In focus: Saudi Arabia’s hospitality boom with Marco Rentsch
Marco Rentsch, a partner at PwC’s Global Consulting Hospitality & Tourism Center of Excellence, has two decades of experience in consulting across EMEA, collaborating primarily with significant government entities in Saudi Arabia. His expertise revolves around crafting and executing innovative strategies that are shaping the dynamic hospitality and tourism sector within KSA. In this exclusive interview, he sheds light on the ever-changing landscape of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry.
Saudi Arabia’s vision for sustainable luxury tourism unveiled in Soudah Peaks
In a remarkable step toward diversifying its economy and enhancing its global tourism standing, Saudi Arabia is set to unveil an extraordinary luxury mountain tourism destination, Soudah Peaks. Located at an elevation of 3,015 meters above sea level on the kingdom’s highest peak, this ambitious project is a pivotal part of the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) visionary efforts.
Medical tourism in the Middle East: the prognosis is good
The region is well placed to tap into the booming medical and wellness tourism segments, according to Ralph Nader, CEO of Amber Consulting, although a formalized strategic approach is needed to support sustainable sectoral growth.
Dubai’s world-class culinary scene
With prestigious awards and accolades validating its status as a global gastronomic hub, Dubai’s culinary scene is a force to be reckoned with. The city’s continuous introduction of innovative dining concepts promises a future filled with further recognition and honors.
Evaluating the hospitality landscape with Gilda Perez-Alvarado
Gilda Perez-Alvarado, the Global CEO at JLL Hotels and Hospitality, leads a specialized team of cross-border investment sales professionals based across the Middle East, Asia-Pacific region, the Americas and Europe. Here, she shares her insights into the hospitality landscape.
Dubai: scaling new heights
Cited in the Travellers’ Choice Awards 2023 by Tripadvisor as one of the most popular destinations, Dubai continues to shine and is already well on track for another bright year. Nagi Morkos, founder and managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, puts a spotlight on the emirate’s latest plans to boost foreign trade, investment and visitor numbers.
Firms foundations and strong fundamentals
Robust project pipelines, strong sentiment and long-term growth strategies look set to continue driving a sound recovery across the region, although financing and construction headwinds remain disruptive forces in the market. Amr El Nady, head of hotels and hospitality MEA and executive vice president, Global Hotel Desk – JLL, charts the hospitality investment landscape, while also highlighting new market opportunities.
Saudi Public Investment Fund launches Asfar to boost the hospitality and tourism sector
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has announced the establishment of the Saudi Tourism Investment Company Asfar to support the growth of the country’s tourism sector.
Navigating the Middle East’s skies with Kashif Khalid
We caught up with Kashif Khalid, IATA’s regional director for the Middle East and Africa, to discuss everything related to travel.
The rise of bleisure travel
In the realm of travel, a new trend has emerged that blends business and leisure. Thomas Kurian, hotel manager of LEVA Hotels, explains how and why bleisure travel in on the rise.